It’s fair to say there’s been some upsetting incidents around Whitehill & Bordon over the last year: The graffiti on the Camp Road underpass and concerns about a man’s public behaviour in St Lucia Park come to mind.

But another side of the town will be shown this weekend at Hogmoor Inclosure as fundraisers, walkers and well-wishers will come together in peace.

Hundreds will go for a wander in the woods this Saturday (October 25) as the East Hampshire Beacon of Peace Charity Walk will take place at the beauty spot.

The annual event is organised by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Elders Association in partnership with the Whitehill & Bordon Community Trust.

Participants who walk the 2.5km route once or twice can raise money for specific charities or donate to a general fund which is shared among local good causes.

Some 23 received a share of nearly £20,000 from last year’s event with WBCT chair, Julie Butler, hopeful of an even bigger turnout and share this time round.

She said: “We’re hoping for more charities and organisations to join this year and I would really like to see some smaller ones to take part.

“There’s been a lot of interest and we’re really looking forward to it.”

While donations are encouraged, there’s no participation fee while walkers can even tuck into a delicious free lunch provided by the AMEA at the finish line.

People can register online or on the day from 9.30am with an opening ceremony at 10.30am and the walk beginning at 11am. It’s best to arrive early with fundraising teams from the Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre, Dementia Friendly Petersfield, Alton Community Centre and a “few newbies” among the participants.

For more details and to register early look for East Hampshire Walk 2025 at https://beaconofpeace.org